The purpose of this study is to develop an optimization model that can select handling equipment and ships from a strategic level. This model can help when investing in systems for handling unitized cargo at port terminals in the context of Short Sea Shipping (SSS). Initial model results indicate that a LoLo vessel with a capacity between (500 and 1000 TEU) capable of completing a SSS voyage, when handling is completed in 48 hours will be less costly than a RoRo, which may have multiple voyages for TEU volumes greater than 1000.